(a) Referral of Complaints to Counsel or to a State Bar. When allegations
of misconduct by an attorney practicing before this Court come to the attention of a Judge
of this Court, whether by complaint or otherwise, the Judge may refer the matter to
counsel for investigation and the prosecution of a formal disciplinary proceeding or the
formulation of such other recommendation as may be appropriate. Alternatively, the
Judge may refer the matter to the appropriate state bar. The Court is not restricted from
taking such other disciplinary action as is within the inherent authority of the Court.
(b) Recommendation by Counsel. Should counsel conclude after
investigation that a formal disciplinary proceeding should not be initiated against the
attorney, counsel shall file with the Court a recommendation for disposition of the matter,
whether by dismissal, admonition, or deferral and shall set forth the reasons for such
recommendation.
(c) Initiation of Disciplinary Proceedings. To initiate formal disciplinary
proceedings, counsel shall obtain an order of the Court upon a showing of probable cause
requiring the attorney to show cause within 21 days after service of the order why the
attorney should not be disciplined.
(d) Hearing. Upon the attorney's answer to the order to show cause, if any
issue of fact is raised or the attorney wishes to be heard, the Court shall set the matter for
prompt hearing.
